Having grown up in a country where cricket isn’t exactly the national pastime, I never quite understood the sport’s nuances. However, with the United States hosting the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup this year, I’ve grown to appreciate the game.
My understanding of cricket is limited, but who cares about the rules when your home country is playing on the international stage? Bangladesh has a muted presence when it comes to international sports, so cricket has given me the thrilling opportunity to feel some Bangladeshi pride.
Bangladesh is often brushed under the umbrella of India or South Asia in general, as though we have no distinct identity of our own. I’m lucky if someone even recognizes Bangladesh when I tell them where I’m from.
But in cricket discourse, everyone knows Bangladesh. It has been refreshing not having to assume otherwise. Sometimes when I describe my homeland, I feel as though I’m justifying our existence — as if my ancestors’ victorious fight for independence wasn’t enough.
Cricket first came to South Asia from the British during the late 1700s, but it quickly gained popularity among the masses. The rich history behind the sport only increases the stakes at these games because the matches feel far longer than three hours. There is an entire history behind each play, whether or not the opposition has actually had any hand in your nation’s past.
Everyone I know can vouch that I am immensely patriotic when it comes to Bangladeshi history and culture. I hold deep reverence for the sacrifices Bangladeshis have made throughout history and our struggle for independence under colonial and military rule.
Supporting Bangladesh in the T20 World Cup is an extension of my patriotism. It’s not just about the wickets; it’s about the spirit of the nation.
Bangladesh has not won any ICC trophies, but watching the cricketers persevere throughout their matches has been nothing short of inspirational. In many ways, I find that their resilience reflects an entire nation that has faced centuries of British colonization, followed by decades of oppression from our neighbor, Pakistan.
The sweet, sweet schadenfreude of witnessing Pakistan’s elimination from the group stage felt like a nod to Bangladesh’s journey toward sovereignty. Though Pakistan’s loss was not at the hands of the Tigers, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of Bangladeshi pride. As a bonus, Pakistan’s unexpected defeat to Team USA was a double victory for me as a Bangladeshi American.
Regardless, I am rather nervous for the rest of Bangladesh’s journey in the World Cup as it will face powerhouses Australia on Thursday and India this Saturday. But the Tigers survived the first group stage. That’s enough for me to keep my head up high.
Watching Bangladesh not only play, but also compete in such a big tournament has brought me immense pride. Standing their ground against wealthier, more successful teams, the Tigers exemplify Bangladeshi perseverance. I look forward to seeing Bangladesh in the rest of the tournament and in the future as our little nation continues to make itself known.
I may not understand every umpire’s call, but I’ll always root for Bangladesh and shout “Joy Bangla!” louder than everyone else.